Indiscriminate use of herbicides like Roundup, 2,4-D raises health concerns in Assam's Kaliabor

Concerns have been raised over the indiscriminate use and sale of herbicides such as Roundup, All Clear and 2,4-D in Assam's Kaliabor, amid growing concerns over their potential impact on human health.
 

The chemicals are reportedly being used extensively in agricultural fields and gardens, with a lack of awareness among farmers and consumers contributing to their widespread use.
 

Concerns have also been raised over the easy availability and sale of these herbicides, despite the potential health risks associated with prolonged or improper exposure to certain chemical weed killers.
 

People may come into contact with such chemicals through different routes, including during spraying and handling, as well as through contaminated food and water.
 

The issue has highlighted the need for greater awareness among farmers and consumers about the safe handling, application and storage of herbicides, along with stricter monitoring of their sale and use.
 

While prolonged exposure to some herbicides has been associated with health risks, establishing a direct link between specific diseases and herbicide exposure would require scientific and medical assessment.
 

Residents and concerned groups have called for increased awareness and appropriate regulatory measures to prevent the indiscriminate use of potentially hazardous herbicides in the region.